Our Daily Bread 19 November 2024 Tuesday Devotional Message
TOPIC: Strong Support in Christ
BIBLE IN YEAR: Ezekiel 11-13; James 1
KEY VERSE: Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor. – Ecclesiastes 4:9
TODAY’S SCRIPTURE
Ecclesiastes 4:9-12
Our Daily Bread 19 November 2024 Tuesday Devotional INSIGHT
Going on a journey is the metaphorical context for Solomon’s—or the Teacher’s (Ecclesiastes 1:1)—discussion of two being better than one (4:9). They can carry more on their trek (v. 9), they can help each other out of perilous spots along the way (v. 10), they can keep warm during the cold nights (v. 11), and they’re less likely to be assaulted before they reach their destination (v. 12). He concludes by pointing out that three is even better, for all the previous reasons.
Despite the bleak outlook of the Teacher throughout the book of Ecclesiastes, he still finds glimmers of hope and goodness. The strength of companionship along a journey might be obvious, but for those who believe in Jesus, it takes on a richer hue. As we walk this road of discipleship, we’re not alone. Christ walks with us. And He’s traveled the path before and will deliver us safely to His Father’s home.
Our Daily Bread 19 November 2024 Tuesday Devotional Message:
A runner in the London Marathon experienced why it’s vital not to run the big race alone. After months of grueling preparation, the man wanted to finish strong. But as he stumbled toward the finish line, he found himself doubled over from exhaustion and on the verge of collapsing. Before he fell to the ground, two fellow marathoners grabbed his arms—one on his left and the other on his right—and helped the struggling runner complete the course.
READ: Our Daily Bread 17th November 2024 Devotional – Spiritual Fitness
Like that runner, the writer of Ecclesiastes reminds us of several important advantages that come from having others run the race of life with us. Solomon set forth the principle that “two are better than one” (Ecclesiastes 4:9). He shed a spotlight on the advantages of joint efforts and mutual toil. He also wrote that partnership can lead to “a good return for their labor” (v. 9).
During times of difficulty, a companion is there to “help the other up” (v. 10). When nights are dark and cold, friends can huddle together to “keep warm” (v. 11). And, during danger, two “can defend themselves” against an assailant (v. 12). Those whose lives are woven together can possess great strength.
With all our weaknesses and frailties, we need the strong support and security of a community of believers in Jesus. Let’s press on together as He leads us!
REFLECT: Why is companionship with other believers in Jesus so important in life’s race? How can you improve the quality of your community in Him?
PRAY: Dear God, please help me build a healthy community in Christ.
ALSO, READ: Our Daily Bread 18 November 2024 Monday Devotional – Obedience Is a Choice
Our Daily Bread 19 November 2024 Tuesday Devotional Message. Our Daily Bread Ministries (ODB) is a Christian organization founded by Dr. Martin De Haan in 1938. It is based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, with over 600 employees. It produces several devotional publications, including Our Daily Bread. our daily bread devotional for today audio our daily bread booklet
PRAYER OF SALVATION
Accept God’s free gift of Salvation Do you want to have a personal relationship with God? We invite you to accept His free gift of salvation through His Son Jesus Christ.
For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. (John 3:16)You can pray the following prayer right now to ask God to come into your heart so that you can receive the miracle of new birth:
‘Almighty God, I come to you today. I confess that I am a sinner, and I cannot save myself. I believe that Jesus Christ came to this world, he died on the cross for my sins, and rose again triumphant on the third day. Right now I repent of my sins, and ask Jesus Christ to come into my life to be my Lord and personal Saviour. I believe according to your Word that I am now saved. Thank you Jesus for saving me from my sins. In Jesus Name, amen.’If you have prayed the prayer above – congratulations! There is much rejoicing in heaven!